1999 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Saturn SL
To start off, 1999 Ford Focus is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Saturn SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Saturn SL would be higher. At 1,899 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Saturn SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Saturn SL (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1999 Ford Focus. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Saturn SL should accelerate faster than 1999 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Ford Focus weights approximately 135 kg more than 1997 Saturn SL.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Saturn SL (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Ford Focus. (149 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Saturn SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford Focus | 1997 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Ford | Saturn |
| Model | Focus | SL |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
